P30 - Incorporating a Connection-Building Approach into Undergraduate Learning Spaces

Program Abstract: Recruitment and retention of STEM majors, especially those from minoritized groups, continues to be a challenge nationwide. At State University of New York Oneonta, a primarily undergraduate institution located in rural upstate NY, many students are recruited from other more ethnically diverse areas of the state and thus student population demographics have evolved. In order to improve student retention, particularly that of students from minoritized groups, an inclusive pedagogy program was initiated. The program encourages faculty to forge deeper connections with students aiming to increase their sense of belonging, which has been shown to positively impact their academic achievement and persistence. If students, especially those traditionally underrepresented in STEM, view themselves as belonging to the scientific community, their persistence in the field is more likely. After two years of implementation, faculty report a positive impact on their instruction and institutional data reveals changes in better student retention and persistence.